Biomorphic Patterning Mandala Workshop

Create a fall mandala of organic and geometric shapes inspired by the natural world

DATE: Saturday, October 24, 2026
TIME:  10:am to 2:00 pm (4hours with a short break for lunch)
LOCATION:  In-person @ Studio #206 on the upper level of The Alton Mill Arts Centre
FEE:  $150 + HST per person

Nature is full of incredible patterns, from the delicate symmetry found within a leaf or a flower to the expansive spirals of distant galaxies. Islamic-style art takes inspiration from these natural patterns, combining them with geometric shapes to create “tiles” or mandala-like designs.

Known as “biomorphic” patterns, the results are floral-based, organic and free flowing elements we typically see set within some sort of geometric framework such as a circle or square.

In this workshop you will learn to draw and paint a biomorphic style pattern along the lines of a traditional Islamic design but with lots of room to experiment and allow your own unique design to emerge. Real elements from nature such as flowers, leaves, shells, etc. will be used for inspiration with aspects integrated with a geometric shape such as a circle or square to create a beautiful and harmonious design.

The mediums we will be using are ink (marker) to create the black outlines typical of Islamic designs plus acrylic paints (used solid or more diluted like watercolour) and metallic inks to add colour. Your piece will be created on canvas that you can take home ready to hang.

No special artistic skills are needed to enjoy this workshop which combines all the relaxation benefits of right-brain intuitive art-making with left-brain logic to draw the pattern.

Fee includes all materials. This is an in-person workshop limited to only 5 participants which means you get lots of one-on-one help.

Please try to register at least one week prior to ensure this class runs and doesn’t have to be cancelled.

Any questions can be emailed to artist@dancingmoondesigns.ca

CANCELLATION POLICY. Please note that all workshops are non-refundable if you are a no-show, cancel or change your mind at the last minute. A raincheck for another workshop may be offered if there are extenuating circumstances that prevent you from attending but this will be solely at the discretion of the instructor. In the event a class needs to be cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen reasons it will be rescheduled or fully refunded.